We're delighted to welcome Ekta Ghosh as our newest CCESL Scholar! Ekta is a master's student in Higher Education Administration at the University of Denver (expected graduation 2028). She also holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, with a specialization in Early Childhood Special Education, and she brings years of experience in education, research, and community-based program coordination.
What drives her
Ekta is passionate about equitable access to resources, community engagement, and building collaborative frameworks that help people and local communities thrive. Her path to this work spans continents. She began her career as a university lecturer in India before moving to Denver for her doctoral studies, and she has spent the years since connecting research, education, and real communities.
Why CCESL?
The Center for Community Engagement to advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL) at DU connects academic knowledge with community-based partnerships to address real-world challenges through collaborative scholarship and public action. As a CCESL Fellow, Ekta will put that mission into practice with Metro DNA.
Her role with Metro DNA
As Metro DNA grows into its role as a collaborative convener for conservation- and equity-based efforts in the region, Ekta will help build the network's internal capacity through communications, storytelling, and administrative support.
Ekta is excited about Metro DNA's vision of a region where people and nature thrive, and about its commitment to connecting equitable outdoor access, climate resilience, and community wellbeing. She is especially looking forward to telling the stories of the partners behind this work.
Collaboration in action
One of Ekta's favorite collaborative projects was serving as Project Coordinator for the Mental Health PILLARS Project at the University of Denver. She coordinated activities, timelines, communications, and deliverables across a network of more than 100 educators, community stakeholders, faculty, and staff. Her biggest lesson: clear communication, structured tracking, and active cross-functional collaboration keep a large, multi-partner initiative moving toward shared goals. She plans to bring that approach to Metro DNA's network of partners.
Ekta in nature
Ekta loves walking local neighborhood trails, visiting community gardens, and taking relaxed weekend trips to scenic park loops and mountain outlooks. Her go-to pack list is simple: a water bottle, some snacks, and a fully charged phone for photos.
A note from Ekta: "I am looking forward to meeting and collaborating with all the network partners over the following year!"